Castel - The Three Current Releases Re-Tasted (K)
 26.10.2010 
 By: Daniel Rogov

In the past two days I have re-tasted each of the latest releases from the Domaine du Castel. Not only did I taste them, I tasted each three times, twice blind and once non-blind at a dinner. Castel remains one of the very best wineries in the country. What can I say better than did the sheriff: "They done good"!

Best
Rogov

Grand Vin Castel, 2008: A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec (60%, 20%, 10%, 6% and 4% respectively). Deeply aromatic, full-bodied and with fine concentration and opening to show true elegance with layer after layer of complexity and depth. Near-sweet tannins that caress gently come together with lightly spicy cedarwood to highlight aromas and flavors of blackcurrants, blackberries and fresh Mediterranean herbs and, on the super-long finish, a tantalizing note of baking chocolate. Perhaps Castel’s best to date. Drink now-2018. Score 93. K

Castel, Petit Castel, 2008: Superb. As always, a Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, the wine aged in French oak for 16 months and in truth a Bordeaux-styled wine that could come only from the Mediterranean sunshine. Deep garnet in color, full-bodied, with soft tannins and bare but tantalizing notes of spicy wood already integrating nicely. A rich blackberry nose followed on the palate by aromas and flavors of blackcurrants, blackberries and black cherries. Pure, round, rich, well focused and with touches of anise and cedarwood on the finish, a complex, deep and long wine. Drink now–2015. Score 93. K

Castel, "C", Chardonnay, 2009: Light gold in color, medium- perhaps medium- to full-bodied. On first attack notes of lemon and lime, those yielding comfortably to aromas and flavors of Anjoy pears and fresh apricots. Reflecting its oak aging with light smoky and spicy notes, those rising on the finish together with hints of citrus peel and stony minerals. Drinking very well now but best from mid-2011-2015. Score 91. K